Cut aircon pipe, is compressor/pump knackered?

[Jay_G]

Sorry if this is the wrong section, tried to put it in the most fitting section.

Basically, my Clio which I picked up this weekend has an aircon pipe which has been cut in the engine bay. First question, as it obviously has no refrigerant in the system now, if aircon was turned on, would that of damaged any of the parts? Essentially running the pump/compressor dry. If anyone could let me know id appreciate it, cheers

 

[Jay Payne]

No, the system has a pressure switch so if there is no gas in it, the compressor will not run even if the AC switch is on insode the car. If its been cut for a while (as in the system has been open to the elements) the its recomended to replace the dryer when repairing it. This absorbs moisture from the system so if the system has been left open the dryer will we full of moisture and wont work properly when the system is refilled

 

[Jay_G]

Thanks a lot Jay.

That's exactly what I wanted to hear, where abouts is the dryer? It's literally about 20cm of pipe that runs over the top of engine bay. Are the dryers expensive to replace? Might do it as a precaution

Thanks again

 

[Jay Payne]

Its a cylindrical unit, Cant remember where it is but I think its on the side of the condensor (radiator)



edit: found this on image search

Not sure if that would come separate